Original material: The Voice runner-up coming to TwickFolk

Bringing Sir Tom Jones to tears on BBC1’s The Voice and getting a rapturous reception performing with band The Poozies at the Edinburgh Fringe, it has been a whirlwind year for singer-songwriter Sally Barker, who brings her unique voice to TwickFolk festival this year.

Throughout a successful career as a solo artist, Barker has performed on stages throughout Europe and released half a dozen solo albums, but since her sensational performances on The Voice in April, there have been quite a few changes to her life.

"People always want a selfie with me now," she says. "I have to make sure I look presentable all the time, which is something I’ve not had to worry too much about before."

Sally came a very respectable second in the competition, and developed a great rapport with mentor Tom Jones, with whom she remains in contact.

She says: "Tom is obviously a legend, but he is such a great laugh. We would just chat away all the time."

Barker, who is currently re-releasing her 2003 album Maid in England with two extra tracks, has performed in Twickenham before and is looking forward to what will be the only London performance of her tour.

"TwickFolk always has some really great artists. This is the first tour since my appearance on the Voice and I can’t wait.

"I prefer a smaller stage compared to some of the huge ones I’ve been on recently. It gives you a chance to communicate with your audience more intimately and have a conversation with them."